Panasonic FH8 vs Panasonic FZ100

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Panasonic FH8 versus Panasonic FZ100, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are manufactured by Panasonic. The resolution of the FH8 (16MP) and the FZ100 (14MP) is pretty well matched and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The FH8 was announced 18 months after the FZ100 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Panasonic FH8 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the FH8 matches up against the FZ100 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100. The whole galleries are available at Panasonic FH8 Gallery and Panasonic FZ100 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera, you will need to think about its weight and size. The Panasonic FH8 has got outside measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ100 has specifications of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic FH8 versus Panasonic FZ100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the FH8 vs the FZ100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the FH8 and FZ100 is 96 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizes simply by checking a spec sheet. The picture below will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the FH8 and FZ100.

Clearly, each of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic FH8 to give you extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The fresher FH8 provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.